Judge throws out multi-million dollar lawsuit against Vonore

After more than two years of court actions, Chief District Judge Thomas Varlan has dismissed a multi-million dollar federal lawsuit against city officials in Vonore.

Former Police Chief John Hines sued the City of Vonore for discrimination, conspiracy, negligence and defamation among others. Hines claimed Vonore Mayor Larry Summey and the Board of Alderman acted questionably after they first demoted him from chief and then fired him as a patrolman.

Hines said city officials told him to demote two detectives. Two officials said Hines' behavior was "erratic" and they need to get rid of him.

Former Police Chief Mike Myers told Hines he could either step down or be fired. Hines told Myers he wouldn't quit, so Myers fired him for insubordination.

Chief District Judge Thomas Varlan threw out the case Thursday and said city officials' behavior was appropriate.